Bill Oddie dies age 85 as fans pay tribute to beloved birdwatcher, wildlife presenter and comedian
Bill leaves behind a wife and three childrenBill Oddie has died aged 85, it has been confirmed.
The legendary birdwatcher’s agent announced the sad news today (Monday July 27, 2026) in a lengthy statement.
David Foster paid tribute to the “multi-talented” TV presenter, admitting he will “miss him terribly”.
Bill leaves behind wife Lauren and their three daughters.
Bill Oddie dies age 85
Mr Foster shared the news of Bill’s death, saying: “It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country’s best-loved birder.
“Bill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued.
“Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment. He taught us the wonder of it, he protested, lobbied and campaigned for it.
“He led the way and people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call. And such a massive contribution to conservation will never be forgotten.”
Mr Foster went on to share his own personal tribute to Bill.
“As Bill’s agent I witnessed close hand his intelligence and wit. He was my friend and it was an honour and a privilege to represent him for so many years. I will miss him terribly,” he said.
“My thoughts and love are with Bill’s wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have asked not to be contacted at this sad time. Please respect their wishes.”
Tributes pour in for Bill Oddie
Bill first found fame in the 1970s as part of the comic trio, The Goodies. He worked alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden.
However, behind the scenes, he also had a passion for wildlife, especially birds. Bill is remembered for his successful identification of Britain’s first-ever recorded Pallas’s reed bunting. He spotted it in Fair Isle, Shetland.
Bill began discussing birds and animals on the radio before moving to television. Fans will remember him for fronting wildlife shows including Birding With Bill Oddie and Bill Oddie Goes Wild.
In the noughties, he also presented Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
Tributes have now poured in for Bill following the news of his death.
Writing on X, one fan said: “Bill Oddie was an inspiration to the child birder that was me. I don’t believe in afterlives but I do wish he could be with his binoculars, forever setting out on a reserve somewhere for eternity.”
Another added: “This is absolutely devastating news. Bill Oddie was the voice of so many childhoods and a true pioneer for wildlife television. The Goodies and Springwatch will never be forgotten. A legendary life well lived. Rest in peace.”
And a third penned: “RIP Bill Oddie Thanks for making me laugh in my younger days.”
